Medications for Scleroderma

The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as advised by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

There are no medications available to cure or halt the progression of scleroderma. Scleroderma is treated on a symptom-by-symptom basis.

Over-the-counter Medications

Prescription Medications

Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

These drugs are given in an effort to slow or halt the progression of scleroderma. While research has yet to prove that these drugs can actually modify scleroderma’s course, they are often given anyway. They are all immunosuppressive agents. Because scleroderma is believed to be caused (at least in part) by an overactive immune system, it is hoped that calming the immune system’s activity will slow scleroderma’s progress.

Non-biological DMARDs may include methotrexate and cyclophosphamide. Biologic DMARDs may include antithymocyte globulin, imatinib, or rituximab

Calcium-channel blockers can reduce the symptoms of
Raynaud’s phenomenon
by relaxing blood vessels. This allows better blood circulation through the fingers, toes, and the tip of the nose. When exposed to cold, you’ll have less trouble with skin blanching and less numbness and tingling. Use of calcium-channel blockers can reduce the chance of developing sores or ulcers on your fingertips.

Calcium-channel blockers may also be given to treat high blood pressure.

These medications are used for Raynaud's phenomenon that is not responding to other forms of treatment. They are also used to heal digital ulcerations and to treat pulmonary hypertension associated with scleroderma.

May include bosentan, ambrisentan, or
sildenafil

Possible side effects include:

Life threatening pulmonary artery pressure changes

Liver damage

Blood pressure changes

Blood Pressure Medications

Blood pressure medications are given to lower high blood pressure.

May include angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or calcium-channel blockers.

Possible side effects include:

Flushing of the skin

Cough

Headaches

Nausea

Jaw pain

Fainting

Prostanoids

Prostanoids are given to improve circulation of blood.

Possible side effects include:

Low blood pressure

Dry mouth

Cough

Lightheadedness

Diarrhea or constipation

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be given to help treat the diarrhea of scleroderma, which is often caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine.

Possible side effects include:

Nausea

Vomiting

Antibiotic allergic reaction

Increased sun sensitivity

H-2 Blockers

H-2 blockers help decrease acid production in the stomach. They may be given to help with
heartburn
and
indigestion.

Possible side effects include:

Lightheadedness

Confusion

Headache

Diarrhea

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors decrease acid production in the stomach. They may be given to help with heartburn, indigestion, and difficulty swallowing.

Possible side effects include:

Lightheadedness

Headache

Diarrhea

Gastrointestinal Stimulants

These medications are given to improve difficulty swallowing.

Possible side effects include:

Heart rhythm problems

Diarrhea

Stomach upset, cramping

Headache

Lightheadedness

Sleepiness

Over-the-Counter Medications

Antacids

Antacids work to neutralize acidity in the stomach. They’re given to improve symptoms of heartburn and indigestion

Possible side effects include:

Diarrhea

Constipation

Special Considerations

If you are taking medications, follow these general guidelines:

Take the medication as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Ask what side effects could occur. Report them to your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medication.

Plan ahead for refills if you need them.

Do not share your prescription medication with anyone.

Medications can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor if you are taking more than one medication, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Scleroderma. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at:
https://www.niams.nih.gov/Health%5FInfo/Scleroderma/default.asp. Updated August 2016. Accessed November 29, 2016.